Shuchi - Purity of Mind
"From purity of food follows the purity of the mind; from purity of the mind follows the steadfastness in knowledge; and from steadfastness in knowledge comes the attainment of truth."
Emphasis of the importance of purity in various aspects of life, including physical cleanliness, mental purity, and spiritual purity is found across the vedas. The Lord suggests that cultivating purity is essential for attaining higher levels of knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual realisation.
One way to attain purity of mind is through chanting, meditation, journaling and mindfulness practices. Taking a few minutes each day to sit in silence and observe our thoughts can help us identify and release negative patterns. Remember, cultivating Shuchi (purity of mind) is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and consistent effort to let go of negative thought patterns and cultivate a more positive mindset. But with practice, it is possible to achieve a state of inner peace and happiness that radiates outwards into all aspects of our lives.
In the above illustration the white lotus is used as a metaphor to represent the purity of mind.
Dridhata - Steadfastness
"Let not the fruit of action be your motive to action. Let your attachment be to the action alone. Therein lies the path of steadfastness."
Steadfastness is a virtue that is highly valued in many cultures and belief systems. It refers to the quality of being resolute and unwavering in one's commitments and actions, even in the face of challenges and obstacles.
Steadfastness is considered essential for achieving success in any endeavour, whether it is in the personal or professional realm. It involves maintaining a clear focus on one's goals, and remaining committed to them even when things get tough. This requires an inner strength and resilience that enables us to overcome setbacks and persevere through difficult times.
In addition to its practical benefits, steadfastness is also valued for its spiritual significance. It is believed that by remaining steadfast in our commitment to righteousness and selfless action, we can achieve spiritual growth and enlightenment. Cultivating a calm and steady mind, and remaining focused on the path of spiritual growth, can help us overcome the fluctuations of the material world and find inner peace and fulfilment.
Overall, steadfastness is a quality that is essential for achieving success and spiritual growth. By remaining resolute and committed in our actions and beliefs, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals, while also finding inner strength and peace.
Abhaya - Fearlessness
"Fearlessness, purity of heart, steadfastness in knowledge and yoga, charity, self-control, non-violence, truthfulness, freedom from anger – these are the virtues of those endowed with divine nature."
The concept of Abhaya, or fearlessness, goes beyond simply being unafraid of physical danger. It involves a deeper level of spiritual understanding and detachment from material possessions, desires, and expectations. When an individual is able to release attachment to the material world, they can recognise the true nature of their self as eternal and divine, which brings a sense of inner peace and stability.
This realisation allows individuals to act in the world without being affected by the challenges and fluctuations of life. Instead of being swayed by fear or doubt, they can face difficulties with courage and integrity, knowing that they are not defined by their circumstances or possessions.
Dama - Self Control
"For one who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, his mind will remain the greatest enemy." Self-control or restraint is an important aspect of spiritual practice in many traditions. It involves the control or restraint of one's own senses and impulses. The senses are naturally attracted to objects of desire, and the practice of self-control is necessary to redirect these energies towards higher spiritual goals. It is the foundation of spiritual life, as it helps to achieve inner peace and equanimity. It is not about suppressing desires, but rather redirecting them towards higher spiritual goals. Through the practice of self-control, one can attain a state of transcendence, where they are no longer bound by the limitations of the material world.
Self-control requires the mastery of the mind and senses. By using the intellect to discriminate between right and wrong and to make choices that are in line with one's spiritual values, one can achieve the state of self-control. Moderation is also an important aspect of self-control, which helps to maintain balance between the physical and spiritual aspects of one's being.
"For one who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, his mind will remain the greatest enemy." Self-control or restraint is an important aspect of spiritual practice in many traditions. It involves the control or restraint of one's own senses and impulses. The senses are naturally attracted to objects of desire, and the practice of self-control is necessary to redirect these energies towards higher spiritual goals. It is the foundation of spiritual life, as it helps to achieve inner peace and equanimity. It is not about suppressing desires, but rather redirecting them towards higher spiritual goals. Through the practice of self-control, one can attain a state of transcendence, where they are no longer bound by the limitations of the material world.
Self-control requires the mastery of the mind and senses. By using the intellect to discriminate between right and wrong and to make choices that are in line with one's spiritual values, one can achieve the state of self-control. Moderation is also an important aspect of self-control, which helps to maintain balance between the physical and spiritual aspects of one's being.
Sathya - Truthfulness
Krishna talks about the concept of Sathya (truth) as one of the fundamental principles of Dharma (righteousness).
He emphasizes the importance of speaking truthfully and living a life of integrity, stating that "Sathya should be spoken, and then alone Dharma should be practiced." Krishna also explains that Sathya is not just a matter of speaking truthfully, but also of living truthfully in thoughts and actions.
He says that those who are established in Sathya attain a state of purity and equanimity, and ultimately achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Krishna talks about the concept of Sathya (truth) as one of the fundamental principles of Dharma (righteousness).
He emphasizes the importance of speaking truthfully and living a life of integrity, stating that "Sathya should be spoken, and then alone Dharma should be practiced." Krishna also explains that Sathya is not just a matter of speaking truthfully, but also of living truthfully in thoughts and actions.
He says that those who are established in Sathya attain a state of purity and equanimity, and ultimately achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Shama - Serenity
Shama is a Sanskrit word that means “Serenity”, “calmness,” and “peace of mind.” In Vedanta and Jnana yoga, it refers to mind control and is one of the six virtues that make up the shat-sampat, which is a type of mental training to overcome the illusion of the physical world.
By cultivating Shama, seekers aim to overcome the delusion of the material world and detach themselves from its transient nature. It serves as a mental training tool to navigate the illusions and distractions that can cloud one's perception of reality. Through the practice of Shama, individuals gain clarity, allowing them to discern the impermanence of the physical realm and connect with the deeper truths of existence.
Shama is a Sanskrit word that means “Serenity”, “calmness,” and “peace of mind.” In Vedanta and Jnana yoga, it refers to mind control and is one of the six virtues that make up the shat-sampat, which is a type of mental training to overcome the illusion of the physical world.
By cultivating Shama, seekers aim to overcome the delusion of the material world and detach themselves from its transient nature. It serves as a mental training tool to navigate the illusions and distractions that can cloud one's perception of reality. Through the practice of Shama, individuals gain clarity, allowing them to discern the impermanence of the physical realm and connect with the deeper truths of existence.
Kshama - Forgiveness
Forgive or Be Forgiven, then you know what Love and Life is.
Transformation and evolution are inherent outcomes of forgiveness. When we forgive and let go of past grievances, we create space for personal growth and positive change. Forgiveness allows us to break free from the cycle of pain and negativity, enabling us to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity.
Forgive or Be Forgiven, then you know what Love and Life is.
Transformation and evolution are inherent outcomes of forgiveness. When we forgive and let go of past grievances, we create space for personal growth and positive change. Forgiveness allows us to break free from the cycle of pain and negativity, enabling us to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity.
Sanyas - Renunciation
When one’s pursuit and priority in life is only the supreme, Then Sanyas is a natural happening.
Here I have metaphorically portrayed the supreme pursuit with the monk (in the pose of a mother) Carrying God. Showing that he has got only God to carry.
According to Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita Sanyas is a state of mind that can be attained by anyone, regardless of external circumstances or social status, through practicing detachment and cultivating equanimity. Krishna emphasizes the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to the fruits of one's actions, and he says that by doing so, one can attain the state of Sanyasa characterized by a sense of detachment and inner peace.
Here I have metaphorically portrayed the supreme pursuit with the monk (in the pose of a mother) Carrying God. Showing that he has got only God to carry.
According to Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita Sanyas is a state of mind that can be attained by anyone, regardless of external circumstances or social status, through practicing detachment and cultivating equanimity. Krishna emphasizes the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to the fruits of one's actions, and he says that by doing so, one can attain the state of Sanyasa characterized by a sense of detachment and inner peace.
Ahimsa - Non Violence
“A person who is nonviolent, who does no harm to any living being, and who treats everyone with kindness and compassion, is considered wise by the learned” Ahimsa, which means non-violence or non-injury, is an essential principle in the Hindu philosophy that emphasises the interconnectedness of all living beings. It is a moral virtue that requires an individual to abstain from causing harm to any living creature, including humans, animals, and plants. Ahimsa is not just a moral principle, but also a spiritual practice that cultivates compassion, kindness, and love towards all beings. The practice of ahimsa is based on the idea of karma, which states that every action has consequences. If a person engages in violent or harmful behavior towards others, they will eventually experience the same or similar consequences in return. Therefore, the practice of ahimsa is not only good for others but also for oneself.
“A person who is nonviolent, who does no harm to any living being, and who treats everyone with kindness and compassion, is considered wise by the learned” Ahimsa, which means non-violence or non-injury, is an essential principle in the Hindu philosophy that emphasises the interconnectedness of all living beings. It is a moral virtue that requires an individual to abstain from causing harm to any living creature, including humans, animals, and plants. Ahimsa is not just a moral principle, but also a spiritual practice that cultivates compassion, kindness, and love towards all beings. The practice of ahimsa is based on the idea of karma, which states that every action has consequences. If a person engages in violent or harmful behavior towards others, they will eventually experience the same or similar consequences in return. Therefore, the practice of ahimsa is not only good for others but also for oneself.
Ahimsa is also an essential component of spiritual growth and enlightenment. The practice of ahimsa helps individuals to overcome their negative emotions, such as anger, jealousy, and hatred, and cultivate positive emotions, such as love, compassion, and forgiveness. It is a powerful tool for self-transformation and inner peace
Dhriti - Patience
Lord Krishna describes Sattvik Dhriti as that which helps one to be steadfast in Yoga, bringing one-pointed focus in life, and upholding and sustaining the Prana (life force) and the five senses. Sattvik Dhriti is a type of Dhriti that is characterized by purity and goodness.
Dhriti is considered an important quality to cultivate as it helps in remaining calm, steady, and resilient through all the trials and challenges of life. It is a virtue that can contribute to one's success and spiritual growth.
In the context of the Yamas (restraints) in yoga philosophy, Dhritiis considered one of the qualities that support the practice of acting with determination and resolve
Each illustration in this collection is meticulously crafted with the deliberate intention of being entirely self-contained and easily comprehensible without the need for extensive explanation. The aim is to convey profound concepts and ideas with a minimalistic approach, distilling complex themes into visually striking and aesthetically pleasing designs. By achieving this, the project aspires to make the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita accessible and appealing to a broad audience, transcending language and cultural barriers, while leaving a lasting impact through its visual simplicity and elegance.
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